SECOND QUARTER 2014
YOGA ON THE RIVERFRONT
As temperatures continued to climb throughout the spring, so did the number of visitors to the riverfront. Now, the Conservancy team finds itself at the beginning of another promising summer season. Much-anticipated openings of Mt. Elliott Park and the west riverfront parcel, as well as construction improvements at Gabriel Richard Park and parcels east and west of Chene Park, will surely reinforce the riverfront’s status as a popular destination for visitors and locals alike this summer. Additionally, we eagerly await the completion of the northward expansion of the Dequindre Cut and the DNR’s Outdoor Adventure Center, which are projects led by our partners in riverfront revitalization. Although the warm weather is just beginning, the riverfront has already hosted several runs, walks and programs this spring, such as the Color Me Rad Run, Hospice of Michigan 5K, Light up the Riverfront and our popular rain barrel workshop. Many more events are planned throughout the summer. GM River Days returns June 20-22 with a tremendous line up of local and national musical acts, rides and games along the midway, an expanded Detroit River Artscape competition, sand sculptures, free Kids Zone activities, Detroit restaurant offerings and more. A special thanks to returning sponsors General Motors and Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort as title and presenting sponsors, respectively.
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Leadership Update
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East Riverfront Other East Riverfront Projects
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West Riverfront
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Programming
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Volunteers
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Riviere28 Operations and Security Finance & Administration
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Advancement
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Communications Governance and Nominating
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Governance and Nominating
Other special events to look for throughout the summer include our Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront literacy program, Soiree on the Greenway and Movies in the Park. Our popular Placemaking initiatives not only make our riverfront a more engaging place to visit, but one that encourages visitors to spend quality time here, and return time after time. Our fundraising efforts continue to generate favorable results, including a significant multi-year grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, which yielded a partnership with the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy on the “Live the Riverfront” initiative that encourages downtown workers and Detroiters to get outside, get fit and get healthy. Lastly, we are in the midst of a comprehensive search and interview process for the new leader of our Organization; watch for an announcement of our next President and CEO in the near future. Please join us in the pages that follow for an update on our second quarter 2014 activities.
Matthew P. Cullen Chairman
David K. Page Vice Chairman
June 2014
LEADERSHIP REPORT
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EAST RIVERFRONT MT. ELLIOTT PARK More than 200 guests gathered on June 6 to celebrate the grand opening of a completely transformed Mt. Elliott Park. Under sunny skies and warm temperatures, enthusiastic attendees listened to remarks from dignitaries including Senator Carl Levin, Lt. Governor Brian Calley, Michigan MDOT Director Kirk Steudle, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano, Detroit Recreation Department Director Alicia Minter, Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan President Mariam Noland and Conservancy Board President Matt Cullen. Following remarks, the acclaimed Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences choir entertained guests with their rendition of “Happy.” Following the performance, dignitaries cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the Great Lakes schooner-themed water feature at the park. After a quick wardrobe change, the children played in what is sure to be another popular destination along the riverfront. Following remarks, guests toured the park and enjoyed a light luncheon at stations set up throughout the park. Conservancy staff were on hand at various points to answer questions and provide information on the park’s many amenities. In addition to the universally accessible water feature with its cascading waterfalls, water cannons and shooting bubblers, Mt. Elliott Park features the Conservancy’s third plaza and pavilion along the riverfront, paved pathways stamped with animal prints, fishing outlooks, lush landscaping, restrooms, a security station and numerous seating options. A café offering food and beverages will open at the park very shortly. The park will also allow donors to engrave benches, bricks and pavers throughout its footprint to support the Conservancy and its mission. The Conservancy is confident that this park will quickly become another popular destination along the riverfront.
MT. ELLIOTT PARK OPENING CELEBRATION PHOTOS MT. ELLIOTT PARK RIBBON CUTTING
CHILDREN PLAYING IN MT. ELLIOTT PARK WATER FEATURE
DETROIT ACADEMY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES CHOIR
PRESS CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
LEADERSHIP REPORT
June 2014
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OTHER EAST RIVERFRONT PROJECTS CONTRACT 2A Chene Park—East/West Parcels
DEQUINDRE CUT NORTH
Significant work to parcels east and west of Chene Park this year will bring the Conservancy closer to its ultimate goal of a continuous 3.5 miles of east riverfront, which are accessible, beautiful and engaging for visitors and connected via the popular RiverWalk.
Work progresses on the northward portion of the Dequindre Cut that will extend the well-traveled greenway from Gratiot Avenue to Mack Avenue. This will provide a safe and convenient link between the riverfront, Eastern Market and surrounding neighborhoods.
At the former Holcim property to the east of Chene Park, site clearing of trees and brush is taking place to make room for a temporary fence, so concerts at the popular amphitheater can continue during construction.
To date, all existing underground utility lines have been relocated away from the construction footprint, and installation of new lines will begin soon. Currently, bridges at Adelaide and Division Streets are being reconstructed. The Division Street bridge structural steel is set, with concrete footings and pier walls poured. The placement of precast arches will follow in the coming weeks. A water main is being replaced at the Adelaide Street bridge and once that is completed, placement of concrete footings, pier walls and precast arches will follow.
Steel art sculptures that lined the river at Chene Park have been temporarily removed in preparation for the start of excavation and grading. A barge equipped with a crane was recently positioned in the river to begin installation of the seawall. Removal of existing stones (rip rap) along the river and removal of portions of the existing seawall will occur in the weeks to follow. A colored concrete walkway with new lighting, landscaping and benches will be installed, linking Atwater Street to the riverfront. The property will also feature a decorative stone wall and concrete planters along the RiverWalk. Additionally, new security cameras and call boxes will be installed. The Watermark property to the west of Chene Park requires minimal demolition and site clearing. The construction crew will move equipment from the Holcim site to begin installation of the seawall. Once complete, this property will feature our colored concrete walkway that leads to the riverfront, improved lighting, beautiful landscaping, benches, bike racks, new security cameras and call boxes. Both parcels are scheduled for completion by fall 2014.
CHENE EAST CONSTRUCTION
Gabriel Richard Park The popular Gabriel Richard Park will receive additional enhancements this summer, including lighting at the existing labyrinth, the installation of an environmentally friendly 36-spot parking lot, a colored concrete walkway that connects visitors from Jefferson Avenue to the RiverWalk and an on-site restroom facility. Work is scheduled to be completed by fall 2014.
Additionally, bridges at Wilkins Street and Alfred Street are being prepared for a summer reconstruction. Once the project is complete, the Conservancy will be responsible for maintenance and operation of the beautiful two miles of greenway.
DEQUINDRE CUT NORTH CONSTRUCTION
June 2014
LEADERSHIP REPORT
OTHER EAST RIVERFRONT PROJECTS (continued…)
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OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER PHOTOS
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER Driving east down Atwater Street, the façade behind the “Outdoor Adventure Center” sign on the Globe Building takes on a distinct sea green hue. Looking at the sign from another angle, it looks pale rose in color. It’s just one of the striking features both inside and outside that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources hopes intrigues people to visit the more than 40,000-square-foot former industrial structure. After months of steady progress, construction crews are currently busy checking off items needed to complete the building. Once the final punch list is addressed, the DNR will close on the building purchase. By early July, its Operation Service Center is expected to be moved from Southfield into the building, bringing several jobs to the riverfront. Specialists have been busy building the many Phase One exhibits that will be featured in the facility when it opens this fall. Construction on additional exhibit phases will continue when the Center opens and funding is secured. As a surprise perk to GM River Days visitors, the DNR will feature some of its hands-on activities at the Center, providing them with a sneak peak of the facility before it opens to the general public. The Conservancy looks forward to partnering with the DNR to develop diverse year-round educational programming opportunities at the facility when it opens to the public. The DNR has graciously agreed to host our June 13 Board meeting at the Outdoor Adventure Center, providing Board members with a preview of this fabulous facility. When the Center officially opens to the public, visitors will experience the Michigan outdoors through these primary interpretive areas – Michigan Trails, The Detroit River and Beyond, Michigan Waters, Heritage Outdoor Sports, Outdoor Lodging, The Big Tree, Nature in My Neighborhood, Michigan’s Healthy Forests and The Dark Sky. Interactive displays will teach people how to use a real bow and arrow, sit in a blind, use a simulator to hunt wildlife, experience the sights and senses associated with camping.
WEST RIVERFRONT
WEST RIVERFRONT 1801 W. JEFFERSON The 20-acre 1801 W. Jefferson property along the west riverfront will soon be bustling with activity as the Conservancy prepares to open it to the general public once power is connected at the site. This first phase of the west riverfront project has three pathways from Jefferson Avenue that will lead visitors to an extra-wide RiverWalk featuring the Detroit riverfront’s iconic marine railing, benches, bike racks, security call boxes and trash receptacles. Acres of wide-open grassy areas, which were helped immensely to reach maturation by a wet spring, will provide a lush canvas upon which visitors can enjoy such activities as picnicking, pickup games of Frisbee or just relaxing on a blanket with a good book. While the Conservancy will launch 1801 W. Jefferson with a soft opening, plans are underway for a late summer or early fall grand opening celebration in which the entire community will be invited to enjoy wonderful food and great music. We will keep you posted as we solidify our plans.
LEADERSHIP REPORT
PROGRAMMING As our construction continues to expand our riverfront footprint, the Conservancy’s vibrant programming efforts are in full swing. Sustainable Saturdays programming, made possible with our partners at the PNC Foundation, successfully kicked off with the rain barrel workshop in late April at Rivard Plaza. Presented in partnership with the Sierra Club and Maxi Containers, the program drew nearly 100 attendees, most of whom built rain barrels for home use. Once connected to down spouts at the home of workshop participants, the rain barrels will help save an estimated half-million gallons of water from entering water treatment systems. This allows the rain water to be used for irrigation purposes and relieves the overburdened water treatment systems.
June 2014
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The partnership also features a Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Riverfront Run, a 5K and 10K run that replaces the River Days Run and benefits the Conservancy. Nearly 1,000 runners are expected to participate in the June 14 event. In addition to these activities, “Live the Riverfront” will be featured in a series of PSAs and paid ads running throughout the summer months on local media outlets.
LIVE THE RIVERFRONT
RAIN BARREL WORKSHOP
The upcoming 4th annual Kids Fishing Fest on June 8 at Milliken State Park and Harbor will bring smiles and delight to an expected 500 children and their families. The popular free program is chaired once again by our enthusiastic Board members, John Hartig and Beverly Watts, and provides children with an opportunity to learn to fish while enjoying clinics, refreshments, games and prizes. The program represents a collaborative partnership with PNC Foundation, the Rivertown Detroit Association, Wayne County Parks, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State University and U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Most importantly, the program encourages inter-generational bonding and connection with nature while teaching children a skill that can create a life-long passion for the great outdoors. Sustainable Saturdays programming will continue monthly through the summer. In 2015, we plan to expand the program to include birding and other nature programs. Funding to support a permanent birding observation area at Gabriel Richard Park is currently being raised by the Audubon Society. On May 7, the group hosted a fundraising dinner at the Rattlesnake Club, at which Board member John Hartig gave an engaging lecture on the return of fish and wildlife to the Detroit riverfront. Our “Live the Riverfront” partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan includes the Walk the RiverWalk Wednesdays program, which was announced at a press announcement on May 2. The 16-week program is designed to encourage participants to join corporate teams to walk along the RiverWalk on their lunch hours and receive a series of incentive fitness-related prizes. So far, more than 500 people have signed on to participate in the program.
The Conservancy is pleased to announce the 8th annual GM River Days presented by Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort, June 20-22. With support of our generous partners at General Motors, the festival continues to be one of Metro Detroit’s most anticipated summer traditions. This year’s featured music acts will include Steppenwolf on Friday night, Blackstreet featuring Teddy Riley and Dave Hollister on Saturday night. Mary Mary and Keith Sweat will perform on Sunday night. In addition to great entertainment, GM River Days offerings will include a free Kids Zone provided by Flagstar Bank, nature programming in Milliken State Park, the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s 75th Anniversary celebration, rides, games, food, boat tours, buskers and our third annual Detroit River ArtScape urban art competition. Daily recurring programming ensures the riverfront will be active with River Walkers, Yoga and Tai Chi on the Riverfront, riverfront walking tours, the Canine Club and Run This Town. New this summer will be league volleyball play on Wednesday nights in partnership with Come Play Detroit on our Rivard Plaza sand volleyball court. As our programming continues to afford us greater outreach into the community, we are pleased to share that we recently worked with a talented group of 30 young, professional Challenge Detroit fellows for a five-week period from April 18 through May 9. The fellows assisted us in enhancing our community engagement, including a new “blackboard” mural along the Dequindre Cut encouraging visitors to share their impressions of the Cut. We are grateful to Board member Mitch Mondry for introducing us to Challenge Detroit.
CHALLENGE DETROIT MURAL ON THE DEQUINDRE CUT
June 2014
LEADERSHIP REPORT
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PROGRAMMING (continued…)
VOLUNTEERS
PUBLIC ART
After a long winter, the Conservancy’s dedicated corps of more than 300 volunteers have begun to take on another busy programming season along Detroit’s riverfront.
We are pleased to share that Meg Heeres has now joined the Conservancy as part-time art consultant to serve as a much-needed resource to the Public Art Sub-Committee headed by Juanita Moore and Andrew Camden. Meg’s responsibilities will include the ongoing review and monitoring of the DRFC public art plan, installation and de-installation of art on the riverfront, budget management, connecting with Detroit area art resources. Meg will also provide support for the Conservancy to expand its art program. De-installation of the Wayne State University Robert Sestok, Free Form 5, took place in late April. We extend our sincere appreciation to committee member Sandra Schemske, Coordinator of the WSU Art Collection, for graciously extending this work on loan to the Conservancy for the past three years. The Public Art Sub-Committee is working to identify a replacement piece of art, and we look to share that information with you in the very near future. With great anticipation, we are pleased to share that installation of New York Artist Mitchell Schorr’s DaRace Detroit! is currently taking place. This work, commissioned by philanthropist Guy Barron, is being installed by Mitchell on the retaining wall adjacent to the GM pump house along the riverfront, which is located just west of the GM Plaza. General Motors has graciously provided valuable resources to prep the existing wall for the installation, adding a wing wall to better frame the mural and installing track lighting to illuminate the installation. Visitors to the riverfront will see Mitchell at work first hand installing his signature piece along the riverfront just in time for our GM River Days. We invite our members and guests to meet Mitchell, as well as our 15 ArtScape finalists and GM artists, when we showcase their work during an opening evening reception and walking tour scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on June 16 at Rivard Plaza.
MITCHELL SCHORR MURAL IN NEW YORK
The kickoff of our green programming provided multiple opportunities for volunteers to assume leadership roles at the rain barrel workshop, which employed them as instructors, directing participants in converting barrels into rainwater reservoirs. Volunteers at the Detroit River Water Festival shepherded more than 750 students between learning stations and assisted instructors in delivering their presentations. Our annual Kids Fishing Fest allowed them to share their fishing expertise, instructing beginning anglers in baiting hooks and casting lines, in many cases, for the first time in their young lives. Our volunteers also helped launch our health and wellness program season with our new Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s “Live the Riverfront” series and the ever-popular DMC RiverWalkers program. They were also on hand for Riviere28’s summer series opener, “Light Up the Riverfront.” And, where would be without the support of more than 100 loyal volunteers at GM River Days? In addition to all this, our Riverfront Ambassadors have returned for another season on the RiverWalk and Dequindre Cut, greeting our many visitors while providing valuable information and directions to guests. Meanwhile, administrative volunteers spent time in our offices assisting with mailings, preparing marketing materials and updating our donor database. All throughout the season, our corporate friends lent helping hands on projects along the riverfront, including Quicken Loans team members and Challenge Detroit fellows sprucing up the Dequindre Cut, Bank of America employees preparing our riverfront play park for another busy season, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan staffing water stations at Walk the RiverWalk Wednesdays. As thanks for their dedicated service, we continued offering quarterly enrichment activities, including a behind-the-scenes tour of Pewabic Pottery and a well-attended cruise aboard the Diamond Jack riverboat. Through these activities, we hope to foster greater camaraderie among our volunteers while providing engaging experiences along the riverfront.
BANK OF AMERICA VOLUNTEERS
RENDERING OF GENERAL MOTORS PIECE FOR ARTSCAPE
LEADERSHIP REPORT
June 2014
RIVIERE28
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LIGHT UP THE RIVERFRONT
The Riviere28 steering committee, led by co-chairs Mitra Jafary and Kristin Lusn, with leadership support from Conservancy Board members, Penny Bailer, Beverly Watts, and the Honorable Mary Sheffield, was instrumental in helping secure the Conservancy as a co-beneficiary of the May 16 Party at the Port fundraising event. Held at the Carl M. Levin Building at the Port Authority, the event drew more than 400 partygoers to the riverfront, and in the process, raised $10,000 for the Conservancy. As these partnerships grow over time, we are confident that Riviere28 will succeed in its goal of introducing a new audience of supporters to the Conservancy. Riviere28 launched its signature summer event series on June 5 with more than 350 guests attending “Light Up the Riverfront,” which featured bonfires, barbecue and live entertainment set against the backdrop of the Detroit River.
OPERATIONS & SECURITY OPERATIONS The beautiful Detroit riverfront is alive with activity once again. A steady stream of visitors during the spring will turn into the large crowds we are accustomed to seeing during our busy summer months. Pre-season maintenance, which includes prepping the water features, volleyball court, play scape, Riverwalk Café and other amenities, ensured that these attractions opened on schedule and were ready for the crowds that “rediscovered” the riverfront this spring. The popular Wheelhouse Detroit opened as well and the Cullen Family Carousel was prepped for Take Kids to Work Day in April. For many, a highlight of a visit to the riverfront is the landscaping that adorns the RiverWalk. Our landscaping efforts thus far have resulted in a rich and engaging tapestry of colors and scents that seem to be a big hit with visitors. These landscaping efforts will continue throughout the summer to ensure our visitors are greeted with a riverfront that is vibrant and colorful. Our popular “Placemaking” furniture—which includes chaise lounges, sling back chairs, Adirondacks and oversized picnic tables—were cleaned and placed along the riverfront. Visitors wasted no time getting reacquainted with these popular riverfront amenities. The busy summer season brings with it an ambitious schedule of planning and executing daily programs, signature events and charitable walks/runs. In fact, we have almost 20 walks and runs this year, more than ever before. With so much to see and do, there is truly something for visitors to enjoy every day of the week along the riverfront. SECURITY The emphasis on safety and security remains a priority along the riverfront. May is when we increase our security staff in anticipation for a busy season. Additions such as seasonal bicycle and golf cart patrols will assist in our ability to keep the RiverWalk an enjoyable and safe place to visit. These patrols cover more ground than a walking security officer and are much more visible. The security committee, which includes members from GM Global Security, Ren Cen Security, Detroit Police Department, Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Coast Guard, met last month to discuss security manpower and strategy for 2014. As a result, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies have increased their commitment to the expanded footprint of the riverfront. We will continue to work collaboratively with these organizations, as well as with our neighboring property owners along the riverfront, to meet our security standards.
RIVERFRONT PLACEMAKING
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION The 2013 audit is now complete with no material issues. The firm of George Johnson & Company presented the draft audit report to the Audit Committee, which is chaired by Pam Rodgers, on May 21 and to the Finance Committee, which is chaired by John Blanchard on May 22, where it was reviewed and approved by the committees. In addition, the 990 report for 2013 is being prepared by the auditors and will be ready for distribution by the third quarter.
Information concerning our first quarter balance sheet, budget vs. actual, along with endowment and investment reports, are set forth in a separate report for the Board’s review.
June 2014
LEADERSHIP REPORT
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ADVANCEMENT As described below, our Development efforts are aimed at achieving this year's $3 million goal. MAJOR GIFTS With a $2.3 million Major Gifts goal, we are continuing to more deeply engage the individual and corporate/foundation philanthropic communities by informing them of our east riverfront achievements to-date, as well as our remaining funding needs and opportunities. In terms of our recent progress in this regard:
We now have a partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for an innovative “Live the Riverfront” initiative that will provide $1 million over four years to the Conservancy.
Similarly, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)/Pure Michigan will provide the Conservancy with $750,000 over three years.
On May 9, we submitted a request to the Bank of America Foundation for $50,000 to support our mission and programs.
This month, the William Davidson Foundation will evaluate our May proposal requesting $3.5 million for the east riverfront project.
This July, we will learn the decision on our $150,000 request to the National Endowment for the Arts made in January to support our Placemaking efforts.
Special thanks are extended to Board Chair Matt Cullen, Vice Chair David Page, and Major Gifts Committee Chair John Stroh III for their instrumental help with our Major Gifts efforts, particularly with the Davidson Foundation request. ANNUAL GIVING
SHIMMER ON THE RIVER
Our enthusiastic Annual Campaign Committee continues to work with our Development team to raise $700,000 in crucial annual operating funds. As of mid-May, $149,506 has been raised toward our 2014 goal (compared to $90,062 at this time last year), with several strategic initiatives already underway, including:
By now, Board members should have received the save the date for our Shimmer on the River fundraising gala on Thursday, September 18, at Cobo Center. Many thanks to Board Member Sarah McClure and her husband Chip, as well as to Maureen and Roy Roberts, for serving as Honorary Co-Chairs of this year's Shimmer event, Hot Havana Nights. We truly appreciate their leadership and support.
The annual Spring Appeal will go out in early June to 3,000 current and lapsed donor individuals.
As part of our annual appeals, this year we are using reply envelopes to survey our donors in terms of which membership benefits they value. This will inform our efforts to recalibrate our membership program in light of what our supporters value from us.
Our "bricks-benches-pavers" program is being refreshed, complete with a new brochure and a "mapping" system that will allow donors to locate their brick, bench or paver when visiting the riverfront. We will also launch a social media-based promotional campaign that will build messages around purchasing a brick, bench, or paver in connection with a holiday or seasonal theme (e.g., Father's Day, July 4th, weddings/graduations/anniversaries/memorials, etc.).
We continue to build our "community giving" program to expand our "reach" throughout Metro Detroit and southeast Michigan. Soon, the Conservancy will be enrolled in programs with Whole Foods, Kroger, independently operated Spartan Stores and Hiller's Markets, whereby loyal shoppers can designates their "rewards dollars" to the Conservancy.
Our donor database continues to be strengthened and supports our fundraising efforts, and will play an instrumental role as we launch efforts aimed at strategically keeping our donors engaged through a combination of tours and reports.
We would also like to acknowledge Annual Campaign Committee Co-Chairs Mitch Mondry and Marvin Beatty for their ongoing involvement with our annual fundraising efforts.
With Mood Events on board again this year to assist in the planning and execution of the event, our efforts are now focused on raising the necessary dollars to reach our $350,000 net goal. Sponsor packages have been sent to prospects and we look forward to following up with these individuals and corporations throughout the summer. Once again, Board participation remains essential to our Shimmer on the River fundraising success, so we ask that each Board member consider purchasing VIP tickets or becoming a Shimmer sponsor. Do you know of someone who may be interested in purchasing tickets to Shimmer or becoming a sponsor? If so, please contact Kate Andrecovich, Donor Relations Coordinator, at 313.566.8248.
SHIMMER ON THE RIVER SAVE THE DATE
LEADERSHIP REPORT
June 2014
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COMMUNICATIONS This spring, significant stories have appeared in media outlets such as WWJ AM 950, WJR AM 760, The Detroit News, Detroit Free Press, Fox 2, WDIV Channel 4, Model D and the American Planning Association’s Planning magazine. Substantial coverage is expected throughout the summer as the Conservancy enters its busy season with major events such as GM River Days, Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront, Riviere28’s Light Up the Riverfront and Soiree on the Greenway, Movies in the Park and many others.
“LIVE THE RIVERFRONT” PRESS CONFERENCE
Social media continues to be a wonderful tool to connect with our audiences. Over the past few months, the Conservancy has utilized it effectively to keep our visitors engaged and aware of the many opportunities on the riverfront. In fact, our social media presence continues to expand exposure by reaching levels that far outreach many nonprofits. Right now, we have more than 41,000 friends on Facebook and 4,500 followers on Twitter. At this time last year, we had approximately 32,000 friends on Facebook and 2,500 followers on Twitter. In April and May, the Conservancy engaged in several tweet chats and live tweets to interact with our Twitter followers. This summer, we will continue our hashtag campaign, #summeronthedrf, to encourage visitors to post and share photos while enjoying our beautiful riverfront. Also, in correlation with the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan “Live the Riverfront” initiative, the Conservancy will also be encouraging people to post “healthies,” a play on the traditional “selfie,” which will show them engaging in active recreation along the RiverWalk.
AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION AWARDS
New for this year, the Conservancy created a handy special events/programming card to keep people apprised of the many exciting things happening along the riverfront. The cards were distributed throughout the Metro Detroit community to hotels, art galleries, coffee shops, attractions, offices, etc. and were met with an overwhelmingly positive response. To date, more than 1,500 of the cards have been circulated. Additional targeted locations will increase our outreach throughout the summer. If you have locations to suggest, e-mail marc.pasco@detroitriverfront.org. Lastly, in April, Chief Financial Officer William Smith accepted the American Planning Association’s Planning Excellence Award for Implementation on behalf of the Conservancy at a luncheon attended by 2,000 APA conference delegates in Atlanta. Each year, the award recognizes a project that demonstrates a significant achievement that contributes to positive changes as a result of planning. Receiving this prestigious award from such a respected organization elevates the exposure of the Conservancy’s successful riverfront transformation to a national audience and reinforcing our project’s standing as a benchmark for other communities to follow.
GOVERNANCE & NOMINATING BOARD MEMBERSHIP We are pleased to welcome to the Board our new ex-officio member, Jennifer Hudson Parke, Board Chair for the Hudson-Webber Foundation. In follow-up to the Call for Nominations at our March Board meeting, we remind Board members to submit nominations to Governance Chair, Kathleen Wendler, at kwendler@southwestdetroit.com. We will be distributing the 2014 Conflict of Interest Annual Disclosure Statement to all members who are present at the June 13 Board meeting. We appreciate your support in fulfilling this annual requirement. Members who are unable to attend the June meeting will receive an electronic copy of the form for completion. BOARD ENGAGEMENT Breakfast meetings with our Board, which began in April 2013, have continued with enthusiastic participation. Our May 13 breakfast was held at the Detroit Athletic Club. We enjoyed a terrific conversation, and members were truly engaged, discussing the many transformative issues of Detroit. We currently have three seats remaining for the September 23 breakfast meeting. If you’d like to attend the meeting from 8 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at the DAC, contact Kerry Hocker at kerry.hocker@detroitriverfront.org.
June 2014
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GOVERNANCE & NOMINATING (Continued…) FEATURED BOARD MEMBERS Each quarter, the Conservancy features two Board members in its Leadership Report. This quarter, we feature Evelyn Johnston and Jeff Pietrzyk.
EVELYN JOHNSTON
JEFF PIETRZYK An educator for more than 50 years, Evelyn Johnston says teaching young and old alike has always been a lifelong passion. She has many additional interests, too, such as community, family and the riverfront. She is grateful that her work with the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy has provided her with the opportunity to play a role in transforming Detroit.
“I had been active throughout the community for many years when I was asked to join the riverfront revitalization efforts,” Evelyn said. “I didn’t hesitate to become involved with the project because I knew how special it was and what it could do for the city,” she added. That was more than 10 years ago, and during Evelyn’s tenure with the Conservancy, she has been tireless in her dedication to ensure that riverfront revitalization moves forward. “In less than 10 years, our riverfront has gone from under-utilized and unattractive to vibrant and vital as an absolute must-see destination for residents and visitors,” said Evelyn. She has lived in the same neighborhood not too far from the riverfront for more than 40 years. The Dequindre Cut is a short walk from her front door. Much like the riverfront has changed, she’s seen the Cut evolve as well. “When it was abandoned, you didn’t want to go down there at all,” she said. “Now it’s alive with activity.” The fact that the Dequindre Cut was given a second chance and continues to be a significant connector in its latest incarnation as a greenway is not lost on Evelyn. “For many years, the Dequindre Cut brought materials and products to and from the riverfront, keeping businesses running and people employed.” she said. “It helped make the City of Detroit great. It’s just as vital now as it was then, but now it connects people to the riverfront, Eastern Market and all those neighborhoods in between and provides tremendous accessibility for thousands of people every year.” Evelyn will reach the end of her fourth and final term as a member of the Conservancy Board of Directors at year end, but she has no plans to slow down. She will continue to teach English at Wayne County Community College District and represent the Riverfront East Alliance (REAL), as well as be an advocate for her beloved Lafayette/Elmwood Park community. “Detroit is my community,” she said. “I still have a lot to give to a community that has given me so much. The City, its riverfront and its people will always be very special to me.” The Board appreciates the years of keen community insight Evelyn provided during the ongoing revitalization of the riverfront and will surely miss her many contributions to the Organization.
The four years Jeff Pietrzyk has spent on the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy Board of Directors have been rewarding because he feels part of something that is having a transformational effect not only on the riverfront, but on the City of Detroit as well. “Some people may think it, but Detroit’s not dead,” said Jeff. “It’s alive and well and getting stronger every day. And, the riverfront is proof of it,” he added. “The revitalized riverfront is forcing a lot of people to rethink their thoughts on Detroit. It’s a game changer.” Now, as he prepares to retire this summer as Administrative Assistant to UAW General Motors Department Vice President Joe Ashton and as Executive Co-Director of the UAW-GM Center for Human Resources, he looks back at his time on the Conservancy Board with a great deal of respect for his fellow Board members. Jeff says he is fortunate to have spent the last four years of his career working with a Board comprising of some of the most dedicated individuals he’s had the pleasure of knowing during his lengthy career in the automotive field. “From its launch more than 10 years ago, the Conservancy has always had strong senior leadership,” said Jeff. “That strong leadership has helped bring tremendous strides in this riverfront revitalization project. Additionally, the Board members all work well together. Every one of them is keenly aware that they are part of a very special team that is doing something significant within the City of Detroit,” Jeff added. There’s so much about the revitalized Detroit riverfront that Jeff loves, it’s difficult for him to pick a favorite spot along the waterfront. But, if he had to choose a favorite destination along the riverfront, Jeff would choose the Cullen Family Carousel. He grew up in New York near a town known as being the birthplace of the carousel. “Whenever, I have a chance to spend some time along the riverfront, I head to the carousel,” Jeff said. “Rivard Plaza is a welcoming, fun and colorful place that riverfront visitors seem to enjoy, no matter what their age. It’s a destination I always make sure my wife and I take visiting guests as well.” Upon retiring, Jeff plans to spend more time with his family and travel throughout the U.S. and Europe. He’ll also move back to his hometown of Buffalo, perhaps even getting involved in that community’s efforts to revitalize its riverfront, something Jeff has proven he definitely has an affinity for, indeed. Conservancy leadership will remember Jeff’s enthusiasm for the riverfront transformation fondly. We wish him well as he begins this exciting next chapter of his life.